Comet Falls

Comet Falls is one of Mount Rainier National Park's tallest and most spectacular waterfalls at 320 feet, beloved for its powerful cascade that resembles a comet's tail as it plunges down a near-vertical cliff. The falls are fed by the Van Trump Creek glacier meltwater, creating a dramatic display especially during peak runoff season.

No — swimming is not permitted at Comet Falls due to cold, turbulent water and safety hazards. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Dogs are not allowed on trails in Mount Rainier National Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Mount Rainier National Park entrance fee applies: $30 per vehicle (7-day pass) or America the Beautiful annual pass accepted. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Parking is available at the Comet Falls trailhead on the north side of the road between Longmire and Paradise; spaces are limited and fill early on summer weekends. Please verify on the official website before you go.

About 5.8 km / 3.6 miles round-trip from the Comet Falls trailhead parking area. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Moderate to Hard — 420 m / 1,380 ft elevation gain with rocky, steep sections and stream crossings on footbridges; trail can be slippery. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Late July through September for accessible trails after snowmelt and best flow visibility, though the falls are impressive during spring runoff (June-July) when water volume peaks. Please verify on the official website before you go.

From the trailhead, the trail climbs steadily through old-growth forest alongside Van Trump Creek. Cross several footbridges over tributary streams as you ascend. The trail becomes steeper and rockier in the final section before reaching the viewpoint at the base of Comet Falls. The falls are viewed from below; do not attempt to climb on wet rocks.

• •Van Trump Park — alpine meadows with wildflowers above Comet Falls (adds 3.6 km / 2.2 mi)
• •Christine Falls — picturesque 40-foot waterfall with stone bridge, roadside viewing on Stevens Canyon Road
• •Narada Falls — 168-foot waterfall with paved viewpoint, 1.6 km / 1 mi east of Comet Falls trailhead
• •Paradise area — iconic Mount Rainier viewpoint with visitor center, meadows, 16 km / 10 mi from trailhead
• •Myrtle Falls — short accessible walk from Paradise to view 72-foot cascade with mountain backdrop